Local seniors lose $10,000 in latest grandparent scam
WELLINGTON COUNTY – Local police are again warning county residents about grandparent scams, after two seniors were bilked out of thousands of dollars.
In a June 17 press release, Wellington County OPP officials announced they are currently investigating three "possibly-connected frauds" in the county.
One was reported on June 15 in Fergus and the others on June 17 in Fergus and Rockwood.
"In each situation, the victim, a senior citizen, was called and told their grandson had been in a collision in Guelph, injuring a pregnant woman and that they had been arrested," stated the OPP release.
"Further, they were told a lawyer by the name of 'Mark Goodman' was sending a bail bondsman to the home to collect $7,000.
"They were also told the bondsman would not park in the driveway due to security reasons and the bondsman would provide them with a secret password so they would know it's the right person."
Police say one victim lost $7,000 and another lost $3,000.
The fake "bondsman" is described as a black man in his late 30s, average height and build, with dreadlocks and dressed is business casual attire.
Anyone with information can call 1-888-310-1122.
To remain anonymous call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip at www.csgw.tips. Tip providers may be eligible for a reward from Crime Stoppers of up to $2,000.
